Thomas E. Schuler

Thomas “Tom” Edward Schuler, age 90, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2016 a few hours after the whole family was together to celebrate his life. We shared beautiful memories of a life well lived. Tom was born July 21, 1926 outside Storm Lake, Iowa in the same farm house where he and Pat raised their kids. He married the love of his life, Patricia Rose Belcher on June 7, 1948 and over the next 16 years welcomed eight children into the world. Following a stint in the army and a short college career at Buena Vista, Tom was a lifelong farmer. He and Pat farmed the land and raised livestock until they retired at age 70. Tom adored his “Trish.” He and Pat enjoyed golfing, traveling, going to movies, vacationing with family in Okoboji and their retirement years in Yuma, Arizona. Dad loved all sports but especially golf. He was proud to get a hole-in-one. Of course, “Trish” got two holes-in-one to show him who ruled the golf course! Tom’s dark hair, thick mustache and short shorts made him a very stylish farmer! He made his time farming more enjoyable by blaring his favorite music over his outdoor speakers way before outdoor speakers were cool. Tom is survived by the love of his life, Patricia; son Steve Schuler and his wife Rose Ann; daughter Barb Anderson and her husband Skoog; daughter Patti McKenna and her husband Jon; daughter Mindy Demers and her partner Paul Anderson; daughter Kelly Schuler and her husband Rod Snavely; and son Shane Schuler and his wife Jonna, along with 16 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and his sister, Evelyn Hanson. Tom was preceded in death by his infant son Jon; daughter Cindy Molgaard; son-in-law Ed Demers; parents Herman and Kate Schuler; siblings Leo Schuler, Delma Wilbur, Katie Benberg and an infant sister. A special thanks to health care angels Cindy, Morgana, Kelly, Nancy and Julia who took care of dad until his final breath. A celebration of life and blessing will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Storm Lake on Friday, October 21, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral starting at 9:00 a.m. at the church. Burial will be in the St. Mary's Cemetery with full military rites by the Alta VFW. The Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake is in charge of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.

Thomas E. Schuler

July 21, 1926 - October 13, 2016